RootX Comparison

Easy-to-apply and safe for the environment, RootX foaming tree root killer uses the non-caustic and non-systemic aquatic herbicide Dichlobenil to kill the tree roots and allow the roots to decay rapidly to rid tree roots from sewer lines. The treatment also leaves behind a thin root prevention layer Dichlobenil to keep new hair like root growth from invading and clogging your pipes. It also saves you a ton of time, as a full root treatment application takes only 20 minutes or less.

RootX Foaming Root Killer vs Copper Sulfate - What’s the Difference?

Roots that are invading your sewer pipes, septic tank or drain field lines can be extremely costly and time consuming to figure out. Thankfully, most root troubles can be addressed by using RootX foaming root killer or an older treatment method using copper sulfate, and it is up to you to decide which option meets your needs and specific circumstance. Both of these root killers kill tree roots, and neither consumes or erodes the underlying foundations of the framework. Once a root is dismantled, organisms will start to deteriorate the roots in a microbe-rich environment. In this article we will explore the differences and similarities between foaming root killer and copper sulfate. Note: If the pipe is completely blocked with roots or restricting flow significantly then your only option initially will be to use mechanical methods such as jetting or snaking the sewer line to restore flow prior to treatment.

Drain Cleaning Foam to Kill Roots

Sewer, septic and drain line damage that can result from tree root intrusion makes it crucial to get rid of tree roots as soon as they invade your pipes. Today, foaming root killer is deemed a more modern and more effective root treatment method than copper sulfate and has become the preferred option for tackling root problems. Not only can it kill existing roots but the best part is it prevents roots from growing back. Routine maintenance treatments (at least annually) will continue keeping the pipeline root free for many years. Foaming root killer contains the herbicide, dichlobenil, and although a bit more expensive than copper sulfate, it works on contact, prevents re-growth, and is safe for pipes and the environment. This foaming root treatment method combines with water, forming an active fizzy or foam “wall” that flows downstream and coats the entire pipeline from top to bottom. Because there are no active ingredients pooling or settling at the bottom of the pipe, you are assured to have a concentrated blow that keeps on delivering from the top to the bottom of the pipe. Since it starts working on contact, foaming root killers are not only effective, but fast.

Copper Sulfate Root Killer

Pouring some copper sulfate down your drain sounds fast and easy - something you can do yourself. Yes, it can do the job long-term, but copper sulfate for treating pipelines is somewhat outdated and may not be the most effective solution to controlling your root problem. Copper sulfate can usually be found in liquid or crystal form. As the name denotes it contains both copper and sulfur - but mostly composed of copper. While most roots enter the top part of a pipe, the copper sulfate solution (which is heavy) sinks and will flow at the bottom of the pipe, bypassing a majority of the roots and essentially rendering the application useless. Without a “foaming action”, the copper sulfate can’t reach the top of the pipe where most of the roots are invading the pipe, so it can’t destroy them. Because copper sulfate only treats the bottom of the pipe, at the time of application, there is no preventative, residual treatment effect to keep roots from growing back. It’s important to keep in mind that incorporating copper sulfate requires caution. It can damage metal or cast iron pipes and cause eye irritation. Exposure can be dangerous, causing severe eye irritation and damage to body tissue. Similarly, copper sulfate can poison animals and can be toxic to birds and fish.

Whichever option you decide to use, make sure to follow instructions for maximum safety and effectiveness.

The RootX Advantage

Easy-to-apply, EPA registered root treatment is classified as a General Use Product with minimal environmental impact. Foaming applications of RootX root killer use a herbicide called Dichlobenil that kills roots on contact and allows the dead roots to decay, restoring pipe flow capacity. The treatment is quick and easy and also leaves behind a thin layer of tree root preventer to keep new root growth from invading and clogging your pipes.